Sade – Smooth Operator

More about Sade

Sade, born Helen Folasade Adu on January 16, 1959, in Ibadan, Nigeria, is the enchanting voice and spirit behind the Grammy-winning band that shares her name. Raised in Essex, England, after her English mother and Nigerian father separated, Sade's multicultural background and deep-rooted passion for music led her to study fashion at Saint Martin's School of Art in London. It was there that she began singing backup for a local band, a gig that eventually propelled her into the spotlight. In 1983, Sade and her bandmates, Stuart Matthewman, Andrew Hale, and Paul Spencer Denman, formed the band Sade. Their debut album, 'Diamond Life' (1984), was a breakthrough success, blending soul, jazz, and R&B into a smooth, sophisticated sound that was both unique and irresistible. Hits like 'Smooth Operator' and 'Your Love is King' catapulted Sade to international stardom. Over the years, Sade's music has become synonymous with sophistication and sensuality, marked by her rich, sultry voice and elegant persona. Despite taking lengthy hiatuses between albums, the band has released six studio albums, including 'Promise' (1985), 'Love Deluxe' (1992), and 'Soldier of Love' (2010), each further cementing their status as icons of adult contemporary music. Sade's influence extends beyond music; she's revered as a style icon and a symbol of enduring grace. With a career spanning over three decades, Sade's legacy is one of timeless elegance and profound emotional depth, making her one of the most beloved and influential artists in music history.